First 100 Days Assessment: Trump's 39% Approval And Policy Impacts

Chloe Fitzgerald

6 min read

Post on May 01, 2025

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Immigration Policies and Public Opinion

Trump's immigration policies were arguably the most contentious aspect of his first 100 days, significantly shaping public opinion and contributing to his low approval rating.

The Travel Ban and its Controversies

The controversial executive order temporarily restricting entry from several Muslim-majority countries immediately ignited fierce debate.

• Specific details of the ban: The initial order banned citizens from seven countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Subsequent versions modified the list and addressed legal challenges.
• Legal arguments: The ban faced numerous legal challenges, with opponents arguing it was unconstitutional, discriminatory, and violated international law. The Supreme Court ultimately upheld a revised version of the ban.
• Protests and media coverage: The ban sparked widespread protests across the United States and internationally, receiving extensive media coverage that highlighted both support and opposition.
• Impact on Trump's approval rating: Polling data indicated a significant negative impact on Trump's approval rating, with a considerable drop among independent voters and minority groups. The travel ban became a symbol of Trump's controversial immigration stance, further polarizing public opinion. Keywords: "Trump travel ban," "immigration policy," "executive order," "public opinion."

Border Wall and Increased Enforcement

Trump's campaign promise to build a wall along the US-Mexico border also played a significant role in shaping public perception.

• Details of the proposed wall: The wall's design, materials, cost, and feasibility were frequently debated, with estimates ranging widely.
• Funding challenges: Securing funding for the wall proved difficult, leading to government shutdowns and ongoing political battles.
• Impact on immigration enforcement: Increased border security measures and stricter enforcement policies led to a rise in deportations and separation of families at the border.
• Impact on Trump's approval rating: Public opinion on the border wall was sharply divided, with strong support among his base but significant opposition from others. This division further contributed to his already low approval rating. Keywords: "border wall," "immigration enforcement," "border security."

Healthcare Reform and the American Health Care Act (AHCA)

Another major focus of Trump's first 100 days was healthcare reform, specifically the attempt to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Repeal and Replace Efforts

The Republican-led effort to repeal and replace the ACA, culminating in the American Health Care Act (AHCA), ultimately failed.

• Key features of the AHCA: The AHCA aimed to dismantle key provisions of the ACA, including the individual mandate and Medicaid expansion. It proposed tax credits and other mechanisms to replace ACA subsidies.
• Legislative process: The AHCA faced significant opposition within the Republican party itself, leading to multiple revisions and delays. It ultimately failed to pass the Senate.
• Debates and ultimate outcome: The debates surrounding the AHCA were intense, focusing on issues like pre-existing conditions, healthcare access, and the cost of insurance.
• Impact on Trump's approval rating: The failure of the AHCA negatively impacted Trump’s approval ratings, particularly among those who relied on the ACA for healthcare coverage. Keywords: "ACA repeal," "AHCA," "healthcare reform," "Trump healthcare policy."

Impact on Healthcare Access and Costs

The failure to repeal and replace the ACA left the future of healthcare access and costs uncertain.

• Potential impacts on healthcare access: Concerns remained regarding access to affordable healthcare, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
• Potential impacts on affordability and insurance coverage: The uncertainty surrounding the future of the ACA fueled anxiety about rising healthcare costs and potential loss of insurance coverage.
• Public opinion and its relation to Trump's approval rating: Public dissatisfaction with the healthcare system and the failure of the AHCA further contributed to Trump's already low approval ratings. Keywords: "healthcare costs," "healthcare access," "Affordable Care Act."

Economic Policies and Their Reception

Trump's economic policies during his first 100 days also influenced public perception and contributed to his approval rating.

Tax Cuts and Economic Growth

Trump's proposed tax cuts were a central element of his economic agenda.

• Details of proposed tax cuts: The proposed tax cuts focused on lowering corporate and individual income tax rates.
• Projected economic growth: Supporters argued that the tax cuts would stimulate economic growth through increased investment and job creation.
• Potential downsides: Critics expressed concern about the potential for increased national debt and widening income inequality.
• Public reaction and impact on Trump’s approval: Public reaction to the proposed tax cuts was mixed, with some celebrating potential economic benefits and others expressing concern about the potential consequences. The impact on his approval rating was less immediate than other policy decisions. Keywords: "tax cuts," "economic growth," "fiscal policy."

Regulation and Deregulation

Trump's administration embarked on a significant deregulation effort during his first 100 days.

• Examples of deregulation efforts: The administration rolled back environmental regulations and eased restrictions on several industries.
• Impact on specific industries: Deregulation efforts affected various sectors, impacting job creation, environmental protection, and consumer safety.
• Public concern and potential environmental consequences: The deregulation efforts sparked concerns about environmental protection and potential negative consequences for public health.
• Public reaction and impact on Trump's approval rating: Public opinion on deregulation was sharply divided, with supporters citing economic benefits and opponents raising concerns about environmental damage and potential risks. Keywords: "deregulation," "environmental policy," "economic regulation."

Conclusion: Assessing Trump's First 100 Days and its Lasting Impact

Trump's first 100 days were characterized by highly controversial policy decisions, particularly in immigration and healthcare, which contributed significantly to his low 39% approval rating. The failure to pass the AHCA and the ongoing controversies surrounding the travel ban and border wall created a highly polarized political climate. While economic policies like proposed tax cuts and deregulation initiatives received mixed public reactions, their long-term impacts remain to be seen and will likely influence future elections. The first 100 days assessment highlights the importance of policy choices in shaping public perception and influencing a president's approval rating. Learn more about the lasting effects of Trump's first 100 days and continue the conversation about Trump's presidency and its policy impacts.